The death of a companion makes the reunion of Ealrin and his friends bittersweet. But even that tragedy cannot forestall the truth: Irradan is at war. The elves of the woods are forced from their ancient dwellings. The Empire of Enoth reaches far beyond its borders to control more and more of the magical land. In the midst of this stands one possible hope: a tree of legend. Ealrin and Blume find unlikely allies and new enemies at every turn. The empire's plan is nearly complete. Will the companions find the tree and restore Blume's amulet? And even if they do, will it be too late to change the tides of war?